What is Accelerated Reader (AR)? ​

AR is a computer program that helps teachers and librarians manage and monitor children’s independent reading practice. Your child picks a book at his own level and reads it at his own pace. When finished, your child takes a short quiz on the computer. (Passing the quiz is an indication that your child understood what was read.) AR gives children, teachers, and librarians feedback based on the quiz results, which the teacher then uses to help your child set goals and direct ongoing reading practice. Children using AR choose their own books to read, rather than having one assigned to them. This makes reading a much more enjoyable experience as they can choose books that are interesting to them. Teachers and librarians help your child choose books at an appropriate readability level that are challenging without being frustrating, ensuring that your child can pass the quiz and experience success.

What is a STAR Reading™ test? ​

STAR Reading is a computerized reading assessment that uses computer-adaptive technology. Questions continually adjust to your child’s responses. If the child’s response is correct, the difficulty level is increased. If the child misses a question, the difficulty level is reduced. The test uses multiple-choice questions and takes approximately 15 minutes.

What is a Zone of Proximal Development (ZPD)?

In independent literature-based reading, ZPD is the range of books that will challenge a child without causing frustration or loss of motivation. Your child will receive a ZPD range after taking a STAR Reading test, or teachers and librarians can use their best professional judgment to determine a ZPD. The ZPD and the GE (Grade Equivalent) score from the STAR Reading test will show up in Accelerated Reader, making it easier for teachers and librarians to set goals for students. It’s important for children to read with a high degree of comprehension and within their ZPDs. ZPDs should be adjusted based on the needs of your child.

How are Accelerated Reader point goals set? ​

Based on extensive research, we can provide guidelines for the approximate number of AR points children should be able to earn depending on how much time they read and their reading level. Monitoring AR points earned by children and comparing them to the guideline values enables your child’s teacher and librarian to determine how well your child is using the time provided for reading practice. If the school has STAR Reading, students’ scores will be accessible in Accelerated Reader, making it easier for teachers and librarians to set point goals for students.

Use Rennaissance Home Connectfor Accelerated Reader (AR)It will send you an email every time your child takes an AR readingtest so you can celebrate their success and know what they are reading.

Steps to Setting Up Home Connect:

Log on to the District web site: do.bonita.k12.ca.us

Click on Home Connect—Ren Place on the right side under Resource Links